1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 1997 Acura EL
To start off, 1997 Acura EL is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Acura EL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Acura EL (127 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura EL should accelerate faster than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura EL weights approximately 239 kg more than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Acura EL, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Acura EL (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Acura EL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 1997 Acura EL | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Acura |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | EL |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1704 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2619 mm |
